The alternator is responsible for charging the battery when the engine is running. It does this by converting mechanical energy from the engine into electrical energy. The diodes in the alternator act as one-way valves, allowing current to flow from the alternator to the battery, but not the other way around.
If one or more of the diodes in the alternator fail, it can create a situation where the battery is able to discharge back through the alternator. This can cause the battery to go dead even if the car is not running.
In addition to causing the battery to go dead, bad diodes in the alternator can also cause other problems, such as:
* Overcharging of the battery
* Damage to the alternator
* Electrical noise
* Flickering lights
* Stalling
If you suspect that your alternator may have bad diodes, it is important to have it checked by a qualified mechanic.
